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Alternative dental options for damaged and decayed teeth

Introduction

When it comes to damaged and decayed teeth, many people feel helpless. As the saying goes, you can't put a price on your smile. But what if there was an alternative solution to restoring those pearly whites? Fortunately, there are several different ways that you can restore your smile without breaking the bank. From dental fillings to bridges and crowns, read about the various restorative dentistry options available for damaged and decayed teeth.

Tooth Restoration: 7 Different Types

Tooth restoration can effectively restore the natural function and appearance of teeth that have been damaged, decayed, or worn. Many different types of tooth restoration procedures are available, each tailored to treat specific problems.

One type of tooth restoration is a dental crown which covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. Crowns can be used to strengthen weakened teeth and improve their look. Another option is a dental bridge that replaces one or more missing teeth by using adjacent teeth as anchors.

Fillings are another popular form of tooth restoration that involve replacing decayed portions with a filling material such as porcelain, gold, silver amalgam, or composite resin. Veneers are also an option for patients looking to fix broken or discolored teeth. Inlays and onlays are similar to fillings, but they cover larger areas of damage and provide extra strength and stability to the affected teeth. Finally, implants are a permanent solution if you're missing one or more teeth; they provide added stability compared to bridges and dentures.

Let us take a look at the two most popular restorative treatments.

Bridges (fixed partial denture)

Bridges are an excellent option for restoring your smile when you have damaged or decayed teeth. Bridges can be made from porcelain that matches the color of your natural teeth or a combination of porcelain bonded onto a more robust metal underneath. The bridge is attached to surrounding teeth (called abutments) with crowns and, in some cases, requires dental implants beneath the new teeth for additional support. Bridges offer excellent cosmetic results and restore both look and function to your mouth. With proper care and regular visits to the dentist, bridges can last many years and are an effective way of replacing missing or damaged teeth.

Crowns

A dental crown is a cap that covers an entire tooth, protecting it from further damage. They are commonly used when a tooth is severely damaged due to decay or trauma, and there isn't enough healthy enamel to support a filling. Dental crowns can also strengthen weakened teeth, restore worn-down teeth, or protect a vulnerable tooth after root canal therapy. Crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain for natural-looking results, gold for durability, and metal alloys to balance strength and aesthetics. The material chosen will depend on the patient's needs and preferences. With proper care and regular oral hygiene habits, dental crowns can last up to 15 years before needing replacement.

Which Restorative Treatment Is Right for Me?

When restoring your damaged and decayed teeth, there are several options available. Great Neck Family Dentists offers composite and fillings, root canal therapy, and dental crowns to help you get back to optimal health.

Our team at Great Neck Family Dentist will guide you through every step of the process, so you feel confident in your decision. We'll develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget so that you can restore your smile for years to come.